Korg has announced OASYS software version 1.10, which includes the first OASYS Expansion Instrument (EXi) update, the STR-1 Plucked String.

The STR-1 represents an advancement in physical modeling, building on more than a decade of Korg’s research with innovations exclusive to OASYS. This new OS also adds support for up to 2 GB of memory, as well as enhancements to the OASYS voice architecture.

The STR-1 Plucked String is a physical model that allows you to pluck, strike, scrape or otherwise excite the string with 16 different pluck types, noise or any of the onboard or RAM-based PCM waveforms. The string itself utilizes an advanced, controllable design, with modeling of both physical materials and playing style (including damping, dispersion, nonlinearity, harmonics and more).

An audio input through the STR-1 provides modeled feedback, for interaction between the instrument and the amplifier. The string timbre can then be shaped further by using OASYS voice elements such as filters, LFOs, a step-sequencer, Vector control and more, as well as layering with any other EXi (including using two STR-1s together).

This new EXi has a retail value of $299, but Korg is offering it free of charge to all current and future OASYS owners.

OS Version 1.10 offers support for up to 2 GB of memory. By adding a 1 GB DIMM memory module, users can keep both the EXs1 and EXs2 expansion libraries in memory at the same time, with room for almost 700 MB of samples still available. Alternatively, by not loading either EXs library, approximately 1.5 GB of sample RAM will be available for loading new sounds or creating custom samples. A new type of AMS Mixer (Alternate Modulation Source) has been added, supplementing the OASYS. The new Gate AMS Mixer lets you set up two different AMS sources (or fixed AMS amounts), and then switch between the two using a third AMS source. Other enhancements include the ability to set a pedal to control Inc/Dec navigation, so you can move through Programs, Combinations or change Sequencer tracks and the ability to filter out half-damping when using a sustain pedal on non-piano sounds.

OS Version 1.10 will be available in early December. For more information visit www.korg.com/oasys.